Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries, economies, and societies worldwide, and its potential to drive sustainability in the MENA region is immense. Research shows that AI can significantly impact 79% of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), making it a critical enabler in achieving the 2030 Agenda.

In the MENA region, AI adoption is accelerating at varied paces, with countries focusing on tailored applications to address unique challenges such as economic growth, youth employment, and climate action.

For instance:

• Egypt leverages AI in smart agriculture, e-learning, and e-health, driving digital transformation in key sectors.

• Saudi Arabia is revolutionizing healthcare with virtual hospitals and upskilling its workforce through AI.

• Morocco uses AI to advance agriculture, climate resilience, and smart cities, driven by its vibrant youth population.

As the founder of MENA Impact, the first platform providing sustainability resources dedicated to the MENA region, I’m excited to explore how AI can be a game-changer for sustainability. This newsletter dives into actionable insights, success stories, and the transformative potential of AI for advancing the SDGs in the Arab world.

AI in MENA: Where Do We Stand?

Artificial Intelligence is not just a buzzword in the MENA region—it’s a powerful economic driver poised to reshape industries and transform economies. According to a study by PwC (The Potential Impact of AI in the Middle East), AI could contribute $320 billion to the Middle East economy by 2030, accounting for 11% of the region’s GDP.

Here’s how AI is expected to shape the economic landscape across the region:

• UAE: Leading the charge, AI is projected to add $96 billion (13.6% of GDP) by 2030.

• Saudi Arabia: Close behind, AI is set to contribute $135.2 billion (12.4% of GDP).

• Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar: Combined, AI could contribute $45.9 billion (8.2% of GDP).

• Egypt: AI is expected to add $42.7 billion (7.7% of GDP).

AI is driving innovation and efficiency in key sectors like retail, healthcare, education, and financial services. Public services and smart cities are also undergoing rapid transformation, with AI fueling advancements in economic growth and environmental sustainability.

The region’s growth trajectory is remarkable, with AI’s contribution to GDP growing annually at 20-34%. The UAE leads with an annual growth rate of 33.5%, followed by Saudi Arabia at 31.3%.

Spending on AI systems in the Middle East and North Africa region highlights this momentum. From $37.5 million in 2017 to over $100 million by 2021, the annual growth rate has been a staggering 32%.

MENA AI & Sustainability Initiatives

The MENA region is taking significant strides in leveraging Artificial Intelligence to address sustainability challenges and drive progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Here are some notable initiatives:

1. AI4SD Initiative by UNDP and MBZUAI

• The UNDP Regional Bureau for Arab States launched the AI for Sustainable Development (AI4SD) platform to bridge information gaps and empower the region.

• Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) serves as the founding knowledge partner for the AI4SD platform, with a focus on:
  • Environmental resilience
  • Water resources management
  • Climate adaptation
  • Social cohesion and reducing inequalities

• This partnership, highlighted during COP28, demonstrates AI’s transformative potential in addressing water scarcity, climate change, and other pressing issues in the region.

2. SDAIA’s Arabic Large Language Model (ALLaM)

• The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) collaborated with IBM to launch ALLaM, an open-source Arabic Large Language Model on IBM’s enterprise AI platform, WatsonX.

• ALLaM enhances Arabic language capabilities in AI, empowering businesses and government entities across the Arab world.

• This initiative positions Saudi Arabia as a leader in AI tailored to the region’s linguistic and cultural needs.

3. Google’s AI Opportunity Initiative for MENA

• Train 500,000 people in AI skills over two years, building on Google’s previous efforts that trained 3 million people in digital skills since 2018.

• Google.org committed $15 million through 2027 to ensure inclusive access to AI opportunities across the region.

• This initiative focuses on equipping individuals with AI skills, fostering regional innovation, and driving economic growth.

4. MENA Observatory on Responsible AI

• A collaborative platform promoting responsible AI tailored to the region’s unique needs.

• Focus Areas:
  • Assessing AI readiness across MENA countries
  • Exploring AI’s intersection with social justice and gender inclusion
  • Promoting ethical AI governance

• The observatory supports localized AI policies and encourages equitable development through AI.